Since P.J. Tucker's surprising departure, the Milwaukee Bucks have been searching for a big-bodied, versatile chess piece on the defensive end. Despite their best efforts, they've come up short far too many times. Now, the answer could be staring them right in the face in the form of Yaxel Lendeborg, the Michigan standout. However, with Giannis Antetokounmpo's future uncertain, it may be too late.
Lendeborg is exactly what Bucks could have used
While Lendeborg is an older prospect, he's one of the most intriguing in this upcoming draft class due to his defensive acumen. At 6-foot-9, 240 lbs, he's sturdy but also has the chops to switch on defense and guard an array of positions. In a league where players must be able to defend anyone and everyone, Lendeborg is the type of ready-made piece who could help any contender.
A year ago, taking Lendeborg would have been a dream, aiding the Bucks in their quest to get back into the contending picture. However, now, as Giannis ponders his future, it makes a lot less sense. If Giannis gets traded, the Bucks will be far away from contention, no matter what they get in return for him. In that case, a 23-year-old rookie doesn't make as much sense.
It's frustrating, given that a problem they've been trying to solve for years could finally have a clear-cut answer. If Giannis stays, perhaps the Bucks could use their 10th overall pick on the forward still, but things do not look good in that regard at the moment.
Bucks have missed Tucker for years
Since 2021, Milwaukee has been looking for its next P.J. Tucker. He was so essential in helping them secure the title that season, providing strong, sturdy defense against the likes of Kevin Durant, Jimmy Butler, Devin Booker, and many more. The constant failure to find an adequate replacement has been the team's greatest issue outside of health in the five years since.
In 2022, the Bucks were torn apart by the Boston Celtics elite duo of Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown. Grayson Allen and Wesley Matthews tried their best. In 2023, Jimmy Butler got revenge on the Bucks with one of the best series in recent memory, frying Jrue Holiday as Jae Crowder, who was supposed to be the Tucker replacement, sat on the bench.
Over the last three seasons, one could argue injuries were the biggest drawback, but not being able to guard a parked car certainly didn't help either. Having someone like Lendeborg fall into their lap a few years ago would have been a blessing. Now, with Milwaukee's contending hopes dropping in the event Giannis asks out, it will likely be all too late.
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